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Book of Exodus - Chapter 5 - Verse 22

5:22
And Moses returned unto the LORD, and said, Lord, wherefore hast thou so evil entreated this people? why is it that thou hast sent me?

Meaning

After witnessing the suffering of the Israelites under the oppressive rule of the Egyptians, Moses questions God about why He allowed such hardship to befall his people. In this verse, we see Moses returning to the Lord and expressing his confusion and frustration at the situation. It illustrates Moses' deep concern for the well-being of the Israelites and his desire to understand God's plan. By asking, "why is it that thou hast sent me?" Moses seeks to comprehend his role in God's divine plan for delivering the Israelites from bondage. This verse showcases the human aspect of Moses' character, his vulnerability, and his willingness to engage in a dialogue with God. It serves as a reminder that even the most faithful and righteous individuals may question God's actions when faced with adversity.

Theological Overview

When Moses returned to the Lord and questioned His actions, it reflected a common theme in the Old Testament of prophets seeking understanding from God. The Hebrew word translated as "evil entreated" can also mean "wronged" or "treated badly," indicating Moses felt that God had mistreated the Israelites in some way. By using this word, Moses was expressing his concern for the people's suffering. Additionally, Moses' question "why is it that thou hast sent me?" reveals his struggle with his own mission and purpose. This verse showcases the complexity of the relationship between God and His chosen leaders, as well as the tension that can arise when carrying out His will. Through theological interpretation and word studies, scholars can delve deeper into the nuances of this passage, uncovering layers of meaning that may not be immediately apparent.

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